How to Buy the Right Gear for Your Outdoor Adventure from REI

Your Guide to buying the best REI

Overview

This REI buying guide provides an in-depth look into the many products offered by REI, the world's leading retailer of outdoor gear and apparel. We will provide you with information to help you make the best decisions when it comes to purchasing products from REI, such as reviews of products, recommendations for the right type of product, and suggestions for ways to save money. We will also help you understand the importance of quality and value when purchasing from REI. This guide will be invaluable for anyone looking for quality outdoor gear and apparel that is built to last.

Key features

  1. Purpose: Consider the purpose of your purchase and what activities you plan to use the product for. Will you be using it for cycling, camping, or hiking? This will help narrow down the type of product you need to purchase.
  2. Materials: Determine what type of materials the product is made from, such as breathable fabrics, waterproof fabric, etc. This can also help narrow down the type of product you need to purchase.
  3. Fit: Consider the fit of the product. Is it adjustable or one-size-fits-all? Will it fit your body type or do you need a different size? This is especially important for clothing and shoes.
  4. Functionality: Evaluate the functionality of the product. Does it have features that are important to you such as pockets, a hood, or reflectors?
  5. Price: Consider the cost of the item. Is it within your budget? Does it offer value for the price?
  6. Warranty: Check to see if the product comes with a warranty. This can offer additional peace of mind and helps protect your investment.

See the most popular REI on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Quality Merchandise - REI carries a wide selection of outdoor gear and apparel from the top brands in the industry, offering you high quality and dependable products for your outdoor activities.
  • Excellent Customer Service - REI staff take the time to give you personalized advice about choosing and using outdoor gear, and will ensure that you find the products that will best meet your needs.
  • Price Match Guarantee - REI will match any lower price you find for the same item, so you can feel confident that you are getting the best value.
  • Rewards Program - REI members can take advantage of their rewards program which provides additional discounts and benefits.
  • 100% Satisfaction Guarantee - REI stands behind their products and offers customers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not completely satisfied with an item, you can return it for a full refund.
  • Free Returns and Exchanges - All REI purchases come with a satisfaction promise, giving you peace of mind when shopping with them.
  • Free In-Store Classes - REI offers free in-store classes on topics ranging from basic outdoor skills to more advanced techniques.

Cons

  • Price: REI can be expensive compared to other outdoor gear retailers.
  • Selection: REI may not carry certain products compared to other retailers.
  • Customer Service: Customers may not receive the same level of service as with other retailers.
  • Shipping: Standard shipping may be slow compared to other retailers.
  • Returns: REI has a strict return policy and may not accept returns on certain items.

Best alternatives

  1. Patagonia - Outdoor apparel and gear for activities such as climbing, skiing, surfing, and fly fishing.
  2. The North Face - Performance apparel, equipment, and footwear for outdoor activities.
  3. Marmot - High-quality, technical outdoor clothing and equipment for activities such as camping, skiing, and hiking.
  4. Columbia Sportswear - Outdoor apparel and footwear for activities such as skiing, fishing, and hiking.
  5. L.L. Bean - Outdoor clothing and gear for activities such as camping, hiking, and fishing.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Backpack - A bag with adjustable straps that is designed to be carried on one's back.
  • Tent - A structure designed for temporary habitation.
  • Sleeping Pad - A cushion-like product designed to be used while sleeping outdoors.
  • Camping Stove - A portable cooking device that can be used for outdoor cooking.
  • Camp Chair - A chair designed for outdoor use.
  • Hiking Boots - Shoes designed for hiking with additional ankle support.
  • Rain Jacket - A lightweight, waterproof garment designed to protect against rain and wind.
  • Hammock - A hanging bed designed for outdoor use.
  • Binoculars - A small device used to magnify distant objects.

Common questions

  1. What are the payment options at REI?
    Customers can pay at REI with major credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, REI gift cards, and Apple Pay.
  2. Does REI offer a warranty for its products?
    Yes, REI offers a one-year warranty for all of its products.
  3. Is REI membership required to shop at REI?
    No, REI membership is not required to shop at REI.
  4. Does REI offer free shipping?
    REI offers free shipping on orders over $50.
  5. Does REI offer a return policy?
    Yes, REI offers a 100-day return policy on all eligible items.

Trivia

In 1983, REI was the first company ever to release a CGI commercial. The advertisement was a computer-generated image of an REI employee skydiving with a stuffed parrot. The commercial aired during the Super Bowl and was produced by the now-defunct Pacific Data Images. The commercial was so revolutionary that it was featured in a 1984 issue of Computer Graphics World magazine. It is still fondly remembered by REI fans today as a milestone in the company's history. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.